Introducing the CCiNZ

Welcome to the first Contact Centre Institute of New Zealand (CCiNZ) column. We are very pleased to be partnering with Telecommunications Review to ensure members of the contact centre industry in New Zealand are kept up to date on all important events, the latest news and global trends for our industry.It is exciting to be part of such a dynamic industry. Research by callcentres.net in 2009 shows an estimate of 350 companies operating a total of 28,730 seats in New Zealand, up from 27,074 in 2008. With 25% of contact centres expected to increase seat numbers in the next 12 months, we look forward to welcoming many new members.For those readers unfamiliar with the CCiNZ, we are a not-for-profit, members association for the NZ Contact Centre Industry and its associated providers. We recently celebrated entering our second year of operation with the launch of a new website, logo and newsletter. Our aim is to promote industry professionalism for the advancement of contact centre management through events as well as support and educate by providing platforms for members to meet, engage and share ideas and experiences. Our committee members have many years’ experience in senior Contact Centre management roles between them are a valuable source of guidance for new managers. Remember, we are here to support! The CCiNZ provides information and guidance on educational resources and staff development, quality performance and technology, how to get the best return on investment and other important areas. We have active Chapters in Auckland and Wellington and are currently looking to establish a group in Christchurch so if you are interested in assisting with our push into the South Island please contact us via the website.For more information on the CCiNZ and how to become a member visit www.ccinz.org.nz 2010 CCiNZ National Conference – September 24 Be at the leading edge of Contact Centre thought leadership. Network with premium NZ Contact Centre industry employees. Spend a day reenergising and re-engaging with one of the most diverse and interesting industries. Experience all this and more at the upcoming CCiNZ National Conference to be held at Auckland’s SkyCity Convention Centre on Friday, September 24 from 8.30am – to 4.30pm. For the full agenda and to book your place visit www.ccinz.org.nz Inaugural CCiNZ Contact Centre Awards – September 24 Entries have now closed and judging has begun on our three awards - ‘CCINZ 2010 Contact Centre Manager of the Year - Over 50 Seats’; ‘CCiNZ 2010 Contact Centre Manager of the Year - Up to 50 Seats’ and ‘CCiNZ 2010 Contact Centre Team Leader of the Year’. The CCiNZ invites you to join in the fun and glamour of this year’s CRM Contact Centre Awards Ceremony to be held on Friday 24 September at the SkyCity Convention Centre in Auckland. The Awards function will commence at 6.00pm with pre-dinner drinks, followed by a sumptuous buffet dinner and official presentation of the CRM Contact Centre Awards. A live band will provide entertainment until around midnight so dance the night away. Why not get your colleagues together and book a table? Just visit www. ccinz.org.nz Kathryn Starr, Co-Chair, Contact Centre Institute of New Zealand.